The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health alert regarding a rise in bacterial infections caused by a strain of meningococcal disease in the United States.
What is Meningococcal disease:?
The said disease, caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, can lead to severe symptoms, including meningitis in the lining of the brain, spinal cord, and bloodstream, and can be fatal.
The CDC alert indicates that a Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y variant caused 140 cases in 2024. This strain predominantly affects adults aged 30 to 60, unlike typical meningitis, which primarily impacts infants and young adults. Those at higher risk for this type of meningitis include Black and African Americans, as well as individuals with HIV.
Virginia is currently experiencing a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease
The CDC recognizes six forms of meningitis serogroups: A, B, C, W, X, and Y. The most common groups In the United States, are B, C, W, and Y. The highest number of type Y cases was reported in 2023, with 422 cases.
Virginia is having a statewide outbreak of meningococcal illness type Y. Since June 2022, the Virginia Department of Health has documented 35 cases related to this outbreak, including six deaths.
Meningococcal disease: Symptoms
Meningococcal disease can result in two types of infections: meningococcal meningitis and meningococcal septicemia (meningococcemia), a bloodstream infection.
Symptoms
– Fever
– Headache
– Stiff neck
– Nausea
– Vomiting
– Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
– Altered mental status
Meningococcal bloodstream infection symptoms:
– Cold hands and feet
– Diarrhea
– Fever and chills
– Fatigue
– Rapid breathing
– Severe aches and pains
– Vomiting
In the advanced stages of the infection, a dark purple rash may appear.
